3 Ways to Style a Kimono

3 Ways to Style a Kimono

You’ve probably noticed that kimonos are everywhere right now, and there seem to be two camps of people: those who take one look and think “Blanche Devereaux,” and those who immediately think “I’m home!” I, personally, love them because they’re so incredibly versatile, adding an extra layer of texture and personality to any outfit. You can seriously throw one on over a tee shirt and jeans and look like a million bucks, but I’ve got a few other creative ways to style them as well. Still not sure? Kimonos are obviously the perfect bathing suit cover-up, and those of us who aren’t into showing a ton of skin on the beach will actually look trendy while feeling confident. Kimonos are also perfect for layering a look in the summer without getting too hot, but still staying comfortable when you’re in an aggressively air conditioned space. But I feel most glamorous when I use these 3 ways to style a kimono:

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1. Layer over a maxi dress

Photo: Wini Lao

I like to pair this black and white, tie-dyed kimono over a simple, black maxi dress. Adding a black fedora, lace-up espadrilles and a pretty embroidered purse to accessorize make this look sort of “polished bohemian.” Tie-dye is going to be a big trend this spring, so this is a fun way to incorporate it. Maxi dresses can be really comfortable to travel in, but run the risk of looking like a nightgown. (No? Am I the only one who thinks so?) With a few simple additions, like a fabulously trendy kimono, they become stylish outfits perfect for air travel.

Photo: Wini LaoPhoto: Wini Lao

2. Wear with a bodycon dress

Photo: Wini Lao

If you’re looking for a great summertime date night outfit, this is it. I like to layer this blue and white kimono over a navy blue bodycon midi dress, and paired it with long layered necklaces, nude sling back heels, and a pretty straw clutch. This outfit works well for date night, or could even be adapted to work for the office, if you work in a more creative environment. I especially like the way that changing my jewelry, shoes, and handbag can quickly dress this outfit up or down.

Photo: Wini LaoPhoto: Wini Lao

3. Wear with white jeans

Photo: Wini Lao

This is a classic and chic vacation outfit. Make your version preppy or tropical, modern or vintage! I like to layer this long kimono with a vibrant botanical print over a white tank top and white jeans. A straw fedora and round straw bag add a summer-y vibe, while strappy gold heels add a bit of sexiness.

Photo: Wini LaoPhoto: Wini Lao

Kimonos are an easy trend to try and will make the rest of your old wardrobe look new again. They’re relatively inexpensive and there’s nothing risky about them. In fact, they actually make for practical additions to your wardrobe, and if they go out of style, you can still wear yours poolside or over loungewear at home. I especially like to wear kimonos over maxi dresses while traveling and running errands; over bodycon dresses for date nights; and with white jeans while one vacation.

What’s your go-to way to style a kimono?

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About Carmen Sognonvi

Carmen Sognonvi is a luxury family travel and lifestyle digital influencer at Top Flight Family. Her insights on travel have been featured in Wanderlust Travel Magazine, TravelPulse, HOTELS Magazine, Seatrade Cruise News and more. Carmen firmly believes that you can (and should) travel with your kids from a young age. She offers families practical solutions for travel, as well as tips on how to travel in luxury for less. She lives in New York City with her multiracial and multicultural family of four. Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

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